Obituary

Elton Kenneth Donaldson, 80, of Great Falls, Dies

Kenny Donaldson, age 80 and Great Falls resident for 52 years, lost his battle with lung cancer on Sunday, April 6. He was born and grew up in Falls Church, where he attended Falls Church High School. He excelled in many roles throughout his life. Following high school he joined the Navy and served three years aboard the USS Worcester during the Korean War. After serving his country he married Madolin, to whom he was a devoted husband for 58 years.

Kenny began his career working for the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and later progressed to the Coastal Engineering and Research Center at Ft. Belvoir. For several years after retiring from the U.S. Government, he enjoyed driving a school bus for Fairfax County Public Schools. Kenny and Madolin moved to Great Falls in 1962 where he was an active member of the Freemasons, Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department, Great Falls United Methodist Church, coached several youth baseball teams, and was always available to help a neighbor or participate in community projects. In his final years he took great pleasure in being the number one fan at his grandchildren’s sporting events, working in his yard, and visiting with neighbors and friends.

Kenny was intensely dedicated to his family, and leaves behind loving members which include his wife Madolin, four children -- Saundra Weller, James, Thomas and Frederick Donaldson -- one son-in-law, Gary Weller, three daughter-in-laws, Gail, Linda, and Lee Ann Donaldson, seven grandchildren and spouses, three great grandchildren, and his sister Margaret Schrouder, as well as a number of loyal friends. A celebration of Kenny’s life took place on April 16 at the Great Falls United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.